Ghana’s Black Queens, the nation’s premier female football team, are experiencing a renewed and escalating dispute with the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) concerning unpaid bonuses and welfare support. The Queens, in a series of increasingly demanding statements, are not only seeking immediate payment of outstanding bonuses for their recent victories but also demanding a significantly increased allocation of resources and attention from the GFA and the Ministry.
In a statement released on [Date – Placeholder], the Queens formally requested the prompt payment of all outstanding bonuses from their win against Egypt in the 2026 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. Beyond this, they are demanding additional support, including more attention from the GFA and the Ministry, as well as comprehensive welfare measures for players and officials. The Queens had also requested the unentitled bonus for reaching the quarter-finals of the 2026 WAFCON qualifiers, as well as unpaid per diem or daily allowances for training and travelling during international duties.
The Queens’ demand stems from a sense of frustration and a desire for greater transparency and accountability within the organization. They expressed a fundamental request for ‘transparency, accountability, fairness, and respect’ – a sentiment echoed in their statement, which they emphasized was not intended to create conflict or disrespect anyone. The Queens stated they dedicate their time, energy, and careers to represent Ghana and make personal sacrifices, with the expectation of receiving a simple request for ‘the necessary support and consideration for their well-being.’
The recent controversy surrounding bonus payments by the Black Queens has been a recurring theme in Ghanaian football. A similar issue occurred when the Queens, during preparation for the WAFCON qualifiers, demanded unpaid bonuses when the Sports Minister, Kofi Iddi Adams, visited them at their hotel. The Minister reportedly asked players who were unwilling to play because bonuses were outstanding, to leave camp. This incident was later denied by both the Minister and the GFA. In 2016, a similar protest occurred with the Queens returning with a bronze medal from that WAFCON, pickingeting at the Sports Ministry to demand their unpaid winning bonuses. The Queens had hoped to conclude their 20-year hiatus at the WWC, however, they have missed out on the automatic route and will now have to go through a more complicated qualification process, starting with the game against Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday.
The Queens’ demand highlights a broader concern within the Ghanaian football landscape – a persistent feeling of being undervalued and neglected. The Queens have repeatedly voiced their concerns about the lack of adequate support for their players and the overall well-being of national teams. The Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the GFA are currently facing scrutiny regarding their response to the Queens’ demands, with many questioning the level of engagement and responsiveness demonstrated.
Sources within the GFA confirm that President Samuel Awase has been briefed on the Queens’ situation and is expected to address the matter in the coming days. The Ministry has not yet released a statement regarding the situation.
The situation continues to be monitored closely by football analysts and fans, with many expressing concern over the potential impact on the Queens’ performance and the overall morale of the national team. The success of the Queens in their upcoming match against Cote d’Ivoire will be crucial in determining whether this dispute will escalate or resolve itself.
Further updates on the situation will be provided as they become available. The issue has been reported by Graphic Online.
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Source: Graphic Online
